Ster-Kinekor shuts cinema in major South African shopping mall

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Ster-Kinekor has officially shut down its cinema complex at the Gateway Theatre of Shopping in Durban, with its final day of operation on 8 May 2025.

This marks the second quiet closure this year, following the earlier closure of its Bedford Square complex in Bedfordview, which was later taken over by rival chain Nu Metro.

While Nu Metro is also rumoured to be taking over the Gateway location, both companies have declined to confirm the transition.

Ster-Kinekor, however, stated the closure was not initiated by the company, suggesting possible disputes with mall management.

“We part ways with Gateway on good terms and with mutual respect,” a spokesperson told MyBroadband.

Financial strain

The closure is part of a broader restructuring effort announced in 2024, driven by financial strain from South Africa’s tough economic climate, load-shedding, and disruptions in Hollywood that delayed key film releases.

At the time, the company warned that up to nine cinemas could be shut and 236 staff members retrenched.

Following the restructure, only two cinemas were officially closed – Boardwalk in Richards Bay and Greenstone Mall – and 52 staff members, primarily at head office, were retrenched.

However, the quiet Gateway and Bedfordview closures suggest further downsizing activity behind the scenes.

Despite these challenges, Ster-Kinekor insists it remains focused on growth.

The company said it is in advanced discussions to launch three new cinema sites, claiming they could surpass the historic foot traffic seen at Gateway.

Ster-Kinekor CEO Mark Sardi previously noted that the company continues to explore alternate models with landlords, including entertainment and educational uses for cinema spaces, in an effort to adapt to shifting market conditions.